Mercy Johnson facts for kids
Mercy Johnson Okojie (i//; born August 28, 1984) is a famous Nigerian actress, film director, and film producer. She is known for her amazing acting skills in many Nollywood movies. Mercy Johnson started her acting career right after finishing secondary school. Her first movie role was in a film called The Maid. Since then, she has starred in many other popular movies like Baby Oku in America and War in the Palace.
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Early Life and Education
Mercy Johnson Okojie comes from Okene in Kogi State, Nigeria. She was born in Lagos State to Daniel Johnson, who was a naval officer, and his wife Elizabeth. Mercy is the fourth of seven children in her family.
She began her primary school education in Calabar, Cross River State. Because her father was in the navy, his job often required him to move. So, her family moved to Lagos State, where she continued her primary education at the Nigerian Navy Primary School. For her secondary education, she attended Rivers State Secondary School and also the Nigerian Navy Secondary School in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Mercy Johnson's Acting Career
Mercy Johnson has achieved a lot in her acting career. In 2009, she won the Best Supporting Actress award at the African Movie Award ceremony for her role in "Live to Remember". Later, in 2013, she won the Best Actress award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards for her funny performance in Dumebi the Dirty Girl.
She was also very popular online! In both December 2011 and 2012, Google listed her as the most searched Nigerian celebrity. This shows how much people were interested in her work.
Working in Government
Beyond acting, Mercy Johnson also works in politics. She is the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Yahaya Bello, who is the governor of Kogi State. Her role involves entertainment, arts, and culture. She started this important job on April 1, 2017.
A Short Ban from Acting
At one point, Mercy Johnson faced a temporary ban from acting. On November 3, 2013, movie marketers in Nollywood (the Nigerian film industry) decided to stop working with her. This was because they felt her fees for movies were too high. Other famous Nollywood stars like Genevieve Nnaji and Omotola Jalade Ekeinde were also part of this ban for similar reasons.
However, the ban did not last long. After Mercy Johnson apologized, the marketers and producers lifted the ban on March 9, 2014. This allowed her to continue her successful acting career.
Becoming a Film Producer
Mercy Johnson has also become a film producer. She made her first movie as a producer called The Legend of Inikpi. This shows her talent not just in acting, but also in creating films.
Mercy Johnson's Family Life
Mercy Johnson is married to Prince Odianosen Okojie. They got married on August 27, 2011. Her husband is also involved in politics. He represents the Esan Northeast/Southeast Federal Constituency of Edo State in the House of Representatives, which is part of Nigeria's government. They have four children together.
Brand Endorsements
Mercy Johnson is a popular figure, so many companies want her to represent their brands. In October 2019, she signed a deal with Hollandia Evap Milk, a product from Chi Limited. She also became a brand ambassador for Pennek Nigeria Limited. This company deals with real estate investments in Lagos.
Selected Filmography
Mercy Johnson Okojie has acted in over 100 movies since she started her career. She continues to work as an actress, producer, and director. Here are some of her notable films:
- 2004: The Maid
- 2005: Women in Power
- 2006: Sweet Mama
- 2007: The Scorpion God
- 2008: Live to Remember
- 2009: Guilty Pleasure
- 2010: A Cry for Justice
- 2011: Weeping Soul
- 2012: Mercy the Bus Driver
- 2013: Baby Oku In America
- 2014: Bloody Ring
- 2015: Thy Will Be Done
- 2016: Light Will Come
- 2017: 16th Anniversary
- 2018: Seven & A Half Dates
- 2019: Mmasi: The Arrogant Preacher
- 2020: The New Normal
- 2020: The Legend of Inikpi
- 2021: A Naija Christmas
- 2022: Battle On Buka Street
- 2022: Passport
- 2023: Something Like Gold
- 2024: House 45
- 2024: Ejiro's Wish
Awards and Recognitions
Mercy Johnson has received many awards and nominations for her acting.
- 2009: Won Best Actress in a Supporting Role at the 5th Africa Movie Academy Awards for Live To Remember.
- 2009: Won Best Supporting Actress at the 2009 Best of Nollywood Awards for Live To Remember.
- 2012: Won Best Actress In Leading Role at the 2012 Nollywood Movies Awards for Weeping Soul.
- 2013: Won Best Actress in Comedy at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards for Dumebi The Dirty Girl.
- 2014: Won Popular Choice-Female at the 2014 Nollywood Movies Awards.
- 2018: Won Actress Of The Year at the 2018 Eloy Awards for Seven & A Half Dates.
- 2022: Nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the 2022 Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards for The New Normal.
- 2023: Nominated for Best Actress In A Comedy/TV Series at the 2023 Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards for Battle on Buka Street and Passport.
See also
- List of Nigerian actresses